Conspiracy Theories Emerge Following President Biden’s Campaign Resignation

Conspiracy Theories Surrounding President Biden’s Campaign Resignation

In recent days, a wave of conspiracy theories has emerged, primarily from far-right commentators and conspiracy theorists, casting doubt on the authenticity of President Biden’s existence following his announcement of resignation from the presidential campaign. These theories are entirely unfounded and lack any credible evidence. President Biden, who tested positive for Covid on July 17, has been isolating since then but has remained active in political engagements.

On Monday, he participated in a campaign event for Vice President Kamala Harris by making a phone call, during which the two exchanged light-hearted compliments. “Joe, are you watching? You hear this clapping? Can you see it?” Ms. Harris inquired, to which Mr. Biden responded, “I’m watching. I’m watching it,” amidst the applause resonating in the room. Furthermore, President Biden has indicated plans to address the nation later this week, further dispelling the doubts surrounding his health and presence.

Despite his active participation, the conspiracy theories have gained traction among the far-right, with some mainstream commentators also lending their voices to the rhetoric. A hashtag related to these theories surged to become a Top 10 trending topic on social media platform X, indicating a broader interest in the narrative, albeit a misleading one.

This surge in conspiracy theories adds to a troubling trend of misinformation propagated by right-wing figures, who have falsely accused Democrats of executing a “coup” against primary voters by sidelining Mr. Biden. Additionally, Vice President Harris has faced a torrent of sexist and racist attacks as part of this narrative.

Shortly after the letter announcing his resignation circulated on social media, Fox News anchors expressed skepticism regarding the absence of accompanying photos or videos that could confirm the announcement’s validity. “It is disconcerting, isn’t it?” remarked Bret Baier, a host on Fox News. His co-host, Dana Perino, added, “Proof of life, please.”

As the conspiracy theories circulated, online users began scrutinizing the letter for any inconsistencies. Some fixated on Mr. Biden’s signature, which clearly reads “J.R. Biden,” but features an underline that they claim is inconsistent with his typical autograph. Influential billionaire Bill Ackman even shared several posts on X, questioning the authenticity of the signature. “If this were a hostage situation, that letter would not qualify as proof of life,” he commented on X, a post that garnered over 1 million views.

Several commentators voiced their opinions on the absence of a White House seal or letterhead on the letter, arguing it indicated the document was not genuinely penned by President Biden. They pointed out that his candidacy is separate from his official duties at the White House or any federal responsibilities.

As the conspiracy theory continued to circulate, and with President Biden remaining out of the public eye during his recovery, the narrative found further support from prominent right-wing influencers. Charlie Kirk, a well-known right-wing podcaster, shared a convoluted story suggesting that Mr. Biden might be “dying or possibly already dead,” a post that reached over 12 million views on X.